Students conducting research in a chemistry lab.

Master of Science 

Applied Chemistry

Program of Study

programofstudy

Build upon foundational knowledge by choosing a concentration of organic or forensic chemistry. Develop the skills necessary to lead scientific teams, manage business functions and become a thought leader.

You will work closely with research-active faculty in areas like organometallic chemistry, organic synthesis, crime scene analysis and disease diagnostics.

In cooperation with a co-advisor at your current employer, you have the option to substitute specific work experience in place of the research portion of the master's thesis.


Additional Information

See the Graduate Bulletin for details.

For more information, contact Jeremy Feldblyum at [email protected].

Concentrations
Organic Chemistry

Core Courses (15 credits)

  • Physical Organic Chemistry I
  • Physical Organic Chemistry II
  • Experimental Methods of Organic Structure Determination
  • Advanced Organic Chemistry
  • Advanced Organic Synthesis


Electives

(3 credits) from any graduate chemistry course


Organic Chemistry Seminar

(4 credits - 4 semesters at 1 credit per semester)


Internship/Practicum in Applied Chemistry

(8 credits - 2 to 3 semesters at 2 to 4 credits per semester)

Forensic Chemistry

Core Courses (16 credits minimum)

  • Advanced Forensic Chemistry
  • Advanced Forensic Chemistry Lab I
  • Advanced Forensic Chemistry Lab II

Three additional courses chosen from the following set of core courses to be taken within the first three semesters. Two of the five graduate courses must be within your field of specialization.

  • Inorganic Chemistry I
  • Inorganic Chemistry II
  • Physical Organic Chemistry I
  • Physical Organic Chemistry II
  • Advanced Physical Chemistry I
  • Advanced Physical Chemistry II
  • Comprehensive Biochemistry I
  • Comprehensive Biochemistry II
  • Theory and Techniques of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry


Research Tool (3 credits)

One course from the following:

  • Experimental Methods of Organic Structure Determination
  • Theory and Techniques of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry (may not be used to satisfy the research tool requirement and the core course requirement simultaneously)
  • Chemical and Enzymatic Kinetics
  • Crystallography


Chemical Research (6-12 credits)

  • Chemical Research
  • Chemical Research Thesis


Seminar in Chemistry

(1 credit, two semester minimum)


Recommended Forensic Electives

  • Forensic Drug Chemistry Internship/Practicum I
  • Forensic Drug Chemistry Internship/Practicum II
  • Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry/Pharmacology
  • Techniques in Forensic Science
  • Courtroom Testimony for Forensic Scientists
Career Outcomes

This program is well-suited for professionals who seek advancement opportunities and who plan to study and work concurrently. The MS in Applied Chemistry will give you the experience and skills necessary to progress to team leader and supervisory positions.

Potential job titles include:

  • Forensic chemist
  • Analytical chemist
  • Biochemist
  • Industrial research scientist
  • Medical laboratory manager
  • Principal chemist
  • Production officer
  • Research manager
  • Research scientist
  • Toxicologist

 

 

Two researchers working in a chemistry lab
career

International Students

This degree is designated as a STEM program. International students maintaining F-1 status are allowed to apply for up to 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) following completion/graduation from their degree program. Currently, this degree program is also designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as an eligible degree for the F-1 STEM OPT work authorization extension; students who secure qualifying employment may be eligible to apply for the STEM OPT extension for a cumulative total of up to 36 months of F-1 OPT work authorization.

Admissions Requirements
Deadlines
  • Fall: Rolling
  • Spring: November 1
  • Summer: Not Available

There is no departmental assistantship consideration for this program.

Required Application Materials
  • Transcripts from all schools attended
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Goals

The statement is generally one to two pages discussing what you have to offer the program and what you wish to get out of the program.  It should include a brief description of the applicant's field of interest, related background, desired area of study and research emphasis or career goals. 

Special Notes

The Organic Chemistry concentration for this program requires an internship, field experience, study abroad component, or clinical experience requirement. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions.  If applicants have concerns about this matter please contact the Dean’s Office of the intended academic program.

admissions
Student Learning Objectives

Learning objectives that UAlbany students are expected to attain through their course of study within their academic program.

Master of Science
  • Advanced laboratory skills and familiarity with modern instrumentation and preparative techniques.
  • Analytical problem-solving skills in chemistry.
  • Preparation for employment or advanced study.
  • Ability to investigate an original research problem under the close direction of a research mentor.
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